Wyman Center’s Teen Connection Project: A Bold Response to Adolescent Mental Health Challenges
For over 127 years, the Wyman Center has dedicated itself to empowering youth through programs aimed at connecting teens with their voices, strengths, and futures. In an era marked by increasing mental health concerns among adolescents, Wyman has launched its latest initiative, the Teen Connection Project (TCP). This program aims to enhance the mental well-being of teens by fostering meaningful relationships, an essential component of healthy development.
The Teen Connection Project builds upon Wyman’s extensive experience—spanning over 15 years—with evidence-based programs such as the Teen Outreach Program. Allison Williams, who became Wyman’s CEO in 2023 after two decades of service within the organization, has prioritized the growth of TCP since its inception. With a focus on addressing the pressing mental health issues faced by today’s youth, Williams has engaged Wyman’s board and staff in strategic discussions about their responsibility to support adolescents.
In an interview with Williams, she emphasized the significance of TCP. “Strong, positive connections are fundamental to teens’ health, well-being, and positive life trajectories,” she stated. TCP is designed to tackle the profound challenges adolescents face, including high levels of stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation—issues that have only worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic.
This evidence-based program engages high school students through a 12-lesson interactive curriculum focusing on vital life skills, such as communication, conflict resolution, and establishing trust. By participating in small peer group meetings, teens develop strong relationships, which are instrumental for their social and emotional growth. This structured approach allows participants to create a supportive environment, paving the way for deeper connections and enhanced self-awareness.
Remarkably, TCP has already reached over 2,000 young people across nine states in partnership with 17 organizations. A three-year research study conducted in Missouri high schools demonstrated TCP’s positive impact on peer relationships, decreasing depressive symptoms and enhancing school engagement.
Looking ahead, Wyman aims to reach 100,000 young people with TCP by 2030. Williams’s ambitious goal reflects the organization’s commitment to addressing the urgent mental health needs of youth. “Every conversation we’ve had reinforces critical themes,” she explained, emphasizing that proactive interventions are necessary to build foundational skills in young people.
Furthermore, Williams advises other youth-serving organizations to recognize the pivotal role they can play in supporting adolescent mental health. “It’s essential to create environments where caring adults can foster relationships and help identify challenges youth are facing,” she noted.
TCP exemplifies how strategic, relationship-focused programming can create a supportive network for young people, equipping them with skills to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. For those interested in learning more about replicating the Teen Connection Project, Wyman invites inquiries to Jillian Rose, TCP Expansion Project Director.
In conclusion, Wyman’s Teen Connection Project stands as a proactive response to the escalating mental health crisis among youth. By focusing on relationship-building and providing essential life skills, TCP lays the groundwork for healthier, more resilient future generations.
